I've been spending every extra minute scouring Craigslist in San Diego, LA, OC, and Ebay trying to find a bike to commute to and from work with. Unfortunately, I can't seem to find anything that'll do the trick in my price range. I'm a USC student and am working full time in Orange County so the bike will be used year round and needs to be as reliable as possible. I take great care of my bikes; I just sold my fixie because it was too difficult to deal with the gear ratio and hills. I have $300 cash (I know it's not much but maybe a good samaritan could help me out and point me in the direction of a deal??). Does anyone know of a friend who wants to help a fellow Southern California bike lover out? I might be able to muster up a little more cash if required...

Nice choice for your college. Is the "bike guy" still at USC? The one with the backyard of stolen bikes? I bought a beach cruiser from him for $20. 2 years later, it got stolen (U lock was cut). I went to buy a replacement, and found my bike again. This time it cost me $10.

What kind of bike are you looking for? If it's just for transport purpose, you can pick up hybraids & low end mountain bikes for little $$$$$. Bought me a Univega hybrid in excellent shape for just $20.00 last week. I'm in Orange County. Pure road bikes within a reasonable budget are a little harder to find.

I haven't heard anything about the "bike guy" but lions bikes on Vermont and 29th is the usual place to find a bike after it's been stolen.

That came after my time there, but it sounds like the same idea.

I'll echo what the others have said - what are you going to use the bike for? How far are you commuting? If you're not going too far or doing any climbing (like commuting around SC), a beach-crusier would be perfect.

I'll be using the bike for 25-30 miles daily commuting in orange county over the summer then back and forth to classes during the rest of the year. I'm following a couple on ebay right now that'll need some work but should pay off in the long run. Thanks for all the responses so far.